Tagetes species

marigold

Plants of Home and Garden, Herbs

African cultivars, or Tagetes erecta varieties, and triploid hybrids are started indoors or under cover in early spring, 6 weeks before last frost, bottom heat helpful; a soil temperature of 75-80F/24-27C is ideal. Transplant after frost is past. Some African cultivars, i.e. double dwarfs, should be started 10 or more weeks before last frost

French and signata marigolds, or Tagetes patula and Tagetes signata, respectively, may also be started this way, or are sown directly after last frost. Good sun and sandy, well-draining, otherwise average soil ideal. Water sparingly, except in hot weather, when regular, thorough waterings should be provided. Also tolerates quite alkaline soils. Annuals